Course Descriptions

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Basic Locksmithing 1

This class will provide the student with an introduction to the skills of locksmithing, beginning with the history and development of security products. Each of the lock types is covered thoroughly, including keys, key production and duplication. Tools and equipment used by the locksmith are demonstrated in practical exercises. This class is a prerequisite to Basic Locksmithing 2.


Basic Locksmithing 2

This class is a continuation of Basic Locksmithing 1. This course will provide the student with practical exercises in disassembly/assembly of residential/commercial door hardware. Operation of key cutting equipment and key production, shimming and picking follows the key blank catalogues and key blank identification presentation.


Note: The Basic Locksmithing courses  (Basic Locksmithing 1 & Basic Locksmithing 2)  are prerequisites to the more advanced courses.


Master Keying

This presentation will explain the principles of master keying, its advantages and disadvantages. Included are the technical specifications for a variety of security products. Students will develop a master key system, generate an organization of keys and prepare functional lock cylinders. The split pin and multiplex systems will be discussed during the instruction. 


Keys by Impression

This class will demonstrate the production of keys by the impression method for pin tumbler and wafer locks. Emphasis is placed on the decision to impression, lock data and technical specifications. Practical exercises are the main feature of this class.


Interchangeable Core

This class explains the principles and provides information on most interchangeable core cylinders such as Best, Falcon, Arrow, Sargent, Corbin / Russwin, Schlage and Medeco. Charts, technical data, tools, pin stack, decoding and pinning will be presented. Students will have the opportunity of a hands-on experience of the pinning procedures of "IC Core" cylinders.


The Ilco Unican 1000 Push Button Lock

This is a class that will concentrate and the ILCO UNICAN 1000 series lockset. The class will cover combination changing, trouble shooting, rebuilding, service and repair. Door installation of the lockset is also covered in this class.



Basic Access Controls 1

An entry level course in electronics related to toady's security technician. Instruction is intended to give good fundamental knowledge of e,=electronic :"Hows" and "Whys" while stressing proper terminology. Practical applications will include basic circuit configurations in series and parallel using electric strikes, pushbuttons, standalone keypads and card readers.


Door Hardware Installation

This class will review the technical specifications of residential/commercial door hardware. Doors and door frames will be presented in detail followed by practical exercises in hardware installation. Included is a discussion and demonstration in the use of power and non-power tools. Students will exercise their skills in disassembly/assembly of hardware products. Hazardous and safe work habits will be underlined during discussion.


Aluminum Door Servicing

This class provides a professional "hands on" approach to hardware installation of aluminum doors. Emphasis is on the tools and equipment required to successfully complete the project. Demonstration and practical exercises are the mainstay of this class.


Door Closer Installation

This class will discuss the requirements of the National Building Code, which dictates the application and use of accessory door hardware. The most common closers and exit devices will be presented. Troubleshooting and corrective procedures will be detailed during the instruction period.


Panic Exit Devices

This class will provide hands-on experience in the installation of panic exit devices of various types, including rim exit devices and surface-mounted vertical rod devices. Exit-only devices and various exterior trims will be introduced.


Codes and Code Cutting Equipment

This class will provide the student with and opportunity to understand and recognize manufacturer's codes. The practical exercises will highlight the use of code books, reference material and the production of functional keys on various code cutting equipment.


Basic Safe Servicing

This class is an introduction to dial locks. Subject matter will demonstrate the operation of the most popular dial locks used in the security industry. Practical exercises include combination changes, disassembly/assembly and installation procedures. Technical specifications and engineering design features are emphasized throughout the training period.


Tubular Keys and Locks

This class will present the features of the tubular lock and its application to equipment. Tubular key cutting, keying and key reading will be coupled with tubular lock picking.


Domestic Auto Lock Servicing

This class is an introduction to automotive locks. Presentation will include the types of locks used in auto security, technical specifications for key production and auto entry procedures. Students will participate in steering column disassembly/assembly, ignition/door lock removal and a variety of key production methods. Included is the 1984-&-up Ford, Chrysler Master/Valet key, GM VATS system and keyless entry.


Foreign Auto Lock Servicing 

This is a continuation class of the Domestic Auto Lock Servicing class. Steering column disassembly/assembly, ignition/door lock removal and key production are the content of this program. Codes and key identification are included in the auto entry phase of training.


Auto Opening

This class provides the student with the information to open most domestic and foreign autos. This is a hands-on class showing the different locking methods and tools used to open the door locks. Tryout keys, progression and key reading are discussed.


Lock Picking A Professional Opening Technique

This class covers the theory, techniques and manipulation methods of "feel" picking, raking, rapping and pick gunning a lock cylinder to open it. A large portion of this class is hands on practice.



Tips and Tricks of the Trade

This class contains over 50 proven tips and Tricks of the Trade for both the experienced and new locksmith. It will include the making of tools, tips for by-pass entry, lock servicing, installing locks, changing lock functions, innovative lock needs, master keying tips and many more. Each tip or trick will be demonstrated and class members will receive a manual for future reference. Any one or two of these tips on it's own will be worth the cost of this class!

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